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​Spirulina is well-known as a powerhouse blue-green nutritionael supplement for people, but it’s also safe and extremely beneficial for animals. It’s a microscopic algae that is packed with more nutrients and digestible plant protein than any other plant, food or herb. It’s also rich in beta-carotene, B-12, iron and trace minerals like calcium, phosphorous, zinc and potassium. Spirulina helps to strengthen the immune system – for instance, it relieves allergies, promotes detox, slows cancer growth and encourages the generation of new red blood cells.
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But a sprinkle of Spirulina over your pet’s food also has simpler benefits – such as helping to encourage picky eaters and freshen bad breath! For birds, spirulina promotes healthy feathers and beaks. My family has even included it in our Bearded Dragon lizard’s meals, and we’ve noticed that his pigmentation has become more vibrant.

One reason that Spirulina is so beneficial is because it stimulates the good bacteria in your pet’s gut and suppresses the bad (such as e-coli and candida). Improving gastrointestinal health then paves the way for proper nutrient absorption, which in turn benefits the whole body.
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Spirulina’s distinctive color results from its high levels of chlorophyll and phycocyanin, which are the contributing factors of its cancer prevention qualities. When purchasing it for your pet, be certain to read the label, as you would for any nutritional supplement you are introducing to your pet. Be sure the product is organic and free from pesticides or artificial fertilizers.

Spirulina is often sold in powder form but it’s also available in capsules, pills and chewable (www.nuvet.com) form. According to herbalist Greg Tilford, it’s safe to use every day – but because it’s so nutrient dense, it can cause diarrhea and digestive upset if too much is ingested. According to Tilford, a daily amount of ¼ teaspoon per pound of food is generally safe for dogs, while cats require ½ teaspoon.

One of the many beneficial ingredients in the NuVet supplement is blue-green algae. Your pet can reap the benefits of spirulina along with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and herbs in one convenient chewable. www.nuvet.com
Written by: Brenda M. Tobin-Flood, Cert. C.N.